The proposed bill seeks to establish a new chapter, 16.1-08.2, in the North Dakota Century Code to enhance campaign finance transparency and accountability. It aims to repeal the existing chapter 16.1-08.1, which currently governs campaign disclosure statements, and introduces updated regulations regarding the reporting thresholds for contributions and expenditures. Notably, the bill raises the reporting threshold for contributions from $200 to $250 and mandates that individuals and political entities disclose contributions exceeding $500 within 48 hours. It also outlines penalties for non-compliance and establishes a framework for adjusting reporting thresholds for inflation every ten years.

In addition to the changes in reporting thresholds, the bill introduces new definitions for key terms related to political financing, clarifies the responsibilities of political committees, and mandates registration with the Secretary of State. It specifies that political committees must provide detailed contact information and outlines the registration timeline. The bill also emphasizes the importance of accurate reporting by requiring comprehensive aggregation of contributions and expenditures. Furthermore, it includes provisions for penalties for violations, mandates audits by the Secretary of State in cases of irregularities, and establishes guidelines for political advertisements to disclose sponsorship information. Overall, the bill aims to streamline campaign finance laws while ensuring greater transparency and accountability in political financing activities in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 16.1-08.1-06.2
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Olson: 16.1-08.1-01, 16.1-08.1-02.1, 16.1-08.1-02.3, 16.1-08.1-02.4, 16.1-08.1-03.2, 16.1-08.1-03.7, 16.1-08.1-06.2, 54-66-01, 54-66-02
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 16.1-08.1-01, 16.1-08.1-02.1, 16.1-08.1-02.3, 16.1-08.1-02.4, 16.1-08.1-03.2, 16.1-08.1-03.7, 16.1-08.1-06.2, 54-66-01, 54-66-02
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Roers: 15.1-09-08, 15.1-09-19, 16.1-01-12, 16.1-10-02, 16.1-10-04.1, 51-28-01, 54-66-01, 54-66-02
Adopted by the Conference Committee: 15.1-09-08, 15.1-09-19, 16.1-01-12, 16.1-10-02, 16.1-10-04.1, 51-28-01, 54-66-01, 54-66-02